Pallet assembly

ABSTRACT

A load supporting assembly structured to support and retain cargo intended to be loaded on and transported by a common commercial carrier, such as an aircraft, wherein the supporting assembly may be in the form of a pallet or alternatively a container having a base panel, side panel and one or more additional panels. Each of the panels include a peripheral flange or like portion extending at least along a majority of the length thereof, which is disposed and configured for fixed attachment to one or more track segments or one or more attachment members. The attachment members are disposed and structured to interconnect the various panels into a predetermined shape, without the use of conventional fasteners or connectors, dependent on the type of common carrier in which the load supporting container assembly is to be loaded.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Claim of Priority

[0002] The present application is a continuation-in-part application ofpreviously filed, now pending application having Ser. No. 09/415,145,filed on Oct. 8, 1999.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention is directed towards a load supportingassembly which may include a pallet assembly primarily, but notexclusively, designed to retain and support cargo within the interior ofcommercial aircraft or other carrier and including a track assemblydesigned to removably secure a retaining cover or like retainingassembly to the pallet, wherein the retaining assembly is of the typetypically used in maintaining cargo on a pallet during transportthereof. The track assembly may be replaced in whole or in part by aplurality of attachment members secured to a base panel for secureattachment of one or more side panels in a manner which eliminates theneed for conventional fasteners, such as rivets or the like, commonlyused in the manufacture of pallets and/or like load supportingassemblies, thereby minimizing pallet down time due to fastener repairrequirements of the Federal Aviation Association (FAA).

[0004] 1. Description of the Related Art

[0005] During recent years, there has been a significantly largeincrease in the amount of freight or cargo transported by commercialairlines. While it has long been common practice to include thetransport of freight on airlines, which are primarily directed topassenger service, there has been a significant increase, in the airlineindustry, of companies dedicated entirely to the transport of freight asversus passengers. A major contributing factor to this increase in thetransport of air freight is the proliferation of air freight serviceswhich are directed to the express delivery of packages of all sizes,throughout the United States and overseas. Such express deliveryservices are offered not only by the U.S. Postal Service but by privatecompanies. All of the larger delivery companies, of the type set forthabove and of standard commercial cargo, maintain an entire fleet ofcommercial aircraft, wherein the individual airplanes have theirinterior configurations structurally modified to facilitate carrying themaximum freight or cargo load possible.

[0006] The loading of air freight within the cargo compartment of anaircraft typically involves the use of pallets, available in a varietyof different sizes, which are disposed in the aircraft and are otherwisedesigned to support and retain cargo thereon. A primary benefit to theuse of such pallets is the ability to load a large volume of smalleritems at one time, after they have been pre-loaded on the pallet at aremote location. Moreover, the pallet functions to maintain the itemssecurely and uniformly retained on the aircraft. In particular, thesupported load is typically maintained in its intended position on thepallet by means of some type of retaining cover or structure,specifically designed to allow the maximum load to be placed on eachpallet, while at the same time assuring that the loaded cargo will notshift or be inadvertently displaced from the pallet during take-offs,landings or during the actual in-flight maneuvers of the aircraft.

[0007] It is of course widely known that the “balancing” of any loadcarried by aircraft, whether the load is comprised of a plurality ofpassengers, freight or a combination of both, is of primary importancefor the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft. Any inadvertentshifting of the load or other significant re-distribution of weightwithin the aircraft, during flight, such as would be the result ofinadvertent displacement of cargo or freight from its supported positionon a pallet, could result in dangerous, unsafe flight conditions andthreaten the safety of the aircraft, as well as the life of the flightpersonnel and/or passengers.

[0008] In order to avoid any inadvertent displacement of air cargo orfreight, of the type set forth above, the aforementioned retainerstructures or covers overlying the freight are removably but securelyconnected to the pallet base, in a manner which would normally preventsuch displacement. Pallet structures of known or conventional designtypically include a track, extending along at least a portion of theperiphery thereof, which is specifically structured to securely fastenthe retaining covers in their intended, overlying position, relative tothe load or freight mounted on the pallet base. Due to the importance ofeliminating any possibility of weight shift due to inadvertentdisplacement of freight or cargo within the interior of an aircraft,regulatory agencies, such as the FAA, regularly and thoroughly examinethe structural integrity of the pallet structures used to support andretain freight loads within an aircraft, as set forth above. One problemconsistently found during such examinations is the failure of asignificant number of pallet assemblies because the aforementionedretaining tracks have a tendency to become at least partially separatedfrom the base of the pallet. Conventional or known pallet design andconstruction normally involves the use of closely spaced rivets or otherapplicable fasteners extending along the length of the track assemblyand serving to securely anchor the track assembly to the base of thepallet. The aforementioned regular inspections all to often determinethat the rivets become loosened or displaced, because of the tremendousstress or force placed thereon by the attached retaining covers, duringnormal flight conditions. Moreover, the requirements of the regulatoryagencies are so strict, that even if only a small number of fastenersfail, the entire pallet must be made inactive until repaired.

[0009] Therefore, there is a recognized need for a significantimprovement in the design and structure of a pallet assembly designed tosupport and retain heavy loads of freight or cargo in a stable manner onthe interior of aircraft or other vehicles. Such an improved palletassembly should be structured to eliminate, as much as possible, theinadvertent and/or partial detachment of a track assembly from the baseof the pallet, preferably by eliminating the use of a plurality ofrivets, or like fasteners, that are independently susceptible tofailure, to fixedly attach the assembly to the base. In addition, suchan improved pallet assembly should be designed to facilitate theassembly and manufacture of the various components associated with thepallet assembly, in a manner which will prevent separation or partialdetachment of the track assembly from the base of the pallet, and whichincreases the security and stability of the pallet within the FAArequirements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention is directed towards a pallet assembly orother load supporting assembly of the type primarily, but notexclusively, designed to support and retain various loads within theinterior of a common carrier such as a commercial aircraft. Moreover,the pallet assembly maintains those loads in a manner which facilitatesthe removable but secure attachment of a load retaining cover or likestructure in overlying relation to the freight mounted on the base ofthe pallet.

[0011] The load retaining structure may include a variety of differentknown or conventional designs, and is in and of itself not an intendedpart of the present invention. However, the purpose of securing the loadretaining structure to the pallet assembly, regardless of the structuraldesign thereof, is of prime importance in preventing the shifting and/ordisplacement of the load, supported on the pallet, within the aircraft,or other vehicle, during flight or travel.

[0012] More specifically, the pallet assembly of the present inventioncomprises a base, including a central portion, formed preferably, butnot necessarily, of a solid sheet of high strength, light weightmaterial, such as but not necessarily limited to metal. Further, thebase includes a peripheral portion disposed in surrounding relation tothe central portion, wherein the peripheral portion preferably, but notnecessarily, comprises a multi-sided configuration. The peripheralportion comprises a plurality of peripheral flanges, each having anelongated configuration and extending along the length of the varioussides of the peripheral portion. Each of the peripheral flangescomprises a predetermined dimension and cross-sectional configuration,which is cooperatively structured with a track assembly for attachmentthere between, as will be explained in greater detail hereinafter.

[0013] The track assembly is preferably connected to and extends aboutthe peripheral portion of the base and is structured to removablyreceive and fixedly secure any of a variety of different load retainingstructures in covering, protective relation to the load mounted on thebase of the pallet assembly.

[0014] Each of the peripheral flanges terminates at oppositely disposedends, substantially corresponding to the ends of the sides of the baseon which they are mounted. Accordingly, correspondingly position ends ofadjacent peripheral flanges are disposed in spaced relation to oneanother, in the vicinity of the corresponding corner of the base. Inorder to avoid such corner spaces and provide a substantially continuousperiphery extending about the base, the pallet assembly of the presentinvention also comprises a plurality of corner assemblies. Each cornerassembly is disposed in aligned relation to a different one of theplurality of corners of the base and is interconnected to the basethrough direct attachment to correspondingly positioned portions of thetrack assembly, as also will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

[0015] The aforementioned track assembly preferably comprises aplurality of integral and/or segmented track segments, preferably equalin number to the plurality of peripheral flanges secured to the base andalso preferably being substantially equal in length to the respectiveones of the peripheral flanges to which they are attached. Each of thetrack segments, may also be formed of a light weight, high strength,metallic or other applicable material.

[0016] As set forth above, each of the track segments are cooperativelystructured to be fixedly and securely mounted on respective ones of theperipheral flanges, in a manner which will eliminate the necessity ofutilizing a plurality of conventional fastener or connector members,such as rivets, screws, bolts or the like, that are typically employedwith conventional or known pallet assemblies of the type designed tosupport and retain air cargo or freight. More specifically, each of thetrack segments preferably includes a securement assembly, such as atrack, defined at least along a majority of the length of said tracksegment and preferably along the entire length thereof. Each track ispreferably disposed in communicating relation with an outer exposedsurface or face of the track segment and is specifically structured toremovably receive and securely retain cooperatively structured couplingelements mounted and/or associated with the aforementioned loadretaining structures.

[0017] In addition, each of the track segments preferably includes andelongated slot formed at least partially on the interior thereof, andincluding an opening extending along a length thereof. The elongatedslot is cooperatively structured with each of the peripheral flanges,such that the peripheral flange may be inserted into the slot at leastpartially on the interior of the track segment. A portion of theperipheral flange is allowed to pass through the aforementioned openingso as to not interfere with the integral or otherwise fixed junctionbetween the peripheral flange and the base. Accordingly, it should beapparent that the cross-sectional configuration of the each of theperipheral flanges may substantially correspond to the cross-sectionalconfiguration of each of the elongated slots. By virtue of thesecorresponding configurations, at least a portion of the peripheralflange can be inserted within and fixedly retained by a correspondingtrack segment so as to define a gripping, at least partially surroundedor enclosed attachment of the track segment with a corresponding one ofthe peripheral flanges.

[0018] As set forth above, each of the aforementioned corner assembliesare interconnected to the base by means of their attachment toadjacently positioned ones of the plurality of track segments.Accordingly, each of the corner assemblies includes a corner segmentdisposed in aligned relation to a corresponding corner of the base, andtwo connector assemblies, each extending outwardly from spaced apartportions of the corner segment into aligned relation with the adjacentlypositioned track segments. In order to accommodate attachment of thecorner assemblies to the corresponding track segments, again without theneed for the utilization of conventional fasteners or connectors, suchas rivets or the like, the connector assemblies associated with eachcorner assembly are preferably received within open ended channels,which at least partially define a hollow interior portion of therespective track segments. Moreover, those open ended channels arepreferably communicatively and/or integrally defined with the elongatedslot wherein the peripheral flange is disposed.

[0019] It is also emphasized that while the predetermined cross-sectionof each of the peripheral flanges may be defined by a general L-shapeconfiguration, the cross-sectional configuration of each of theperipheral flanges, as well as the elongated slot integrally formed inthe track segments, may vary from an L-shape, and still be capable ofdefining a secure, gripping attachment between corresponding ones of theperipheral flanges and track segments.

[0020] By way of example, another embodiment of the present invention isprimarily directed to a load supporting assembly and includes a basepanel having a plurality of outwardly extending peripheral flanges,generally similar to the base of the pallet assembly embodiment, asdescribed above. However the peripheral flanges of the base panel arecharacterized by a more continuous, at least partially curvilinearcross-sectional configuration which corresponds to the cross-sectionalconfiguration of the elongated slot within the track assembly.Alternatively, one or more attachment members may be utilized instead ofthe track assembly. The one or more attachment members each include atleast a first elongated slot extending along the length thereof. Thefirst slot includes a cross-sectional configuration substantiallycorresponding to that of the “curvilinear” cross-sectional configurationof the peripheral flange of the base panel, as set forth above. Byvirtue of these cooperative cross-sectional configurations, theperipheral flanges of the base panel, and in certain other embodiments anumber of other side panels or auxiliary panels, may be disposed insubstantially enclosed relation within correspondingly disposedelongated slots formed in the various attachment members, as will beexplained in greater detail hereinafter. A gripping engagement willthereby be defined between the peripheral flanges of the base panel andthe respective attachment members as well as any peripheral flangesassociated with the side panels or auxiliary panels and correspondinglydisposed in interconnecting relation with the attachment members. Again,as set forth above, the use of conventional connectors such as rivetsand the like, will thereby be eliminated.

[0021] Accordingly, alternative embodiments of the present inventioncomprise a base panel connected to one or more side panels and possiblyone or more auxiliary panels so as to substantially define an enclosureor container. Such a load supporting assembly, including theaforementioned enclosure or container, may or may not include at leastone track assembly for the connection of a load retaining structurethereto, in the manner set forth above with regard to the embodimentscomprising the pallet assembly. Also, one or more side panels may beconnected to the base panel and to one another using a plurality of theaforementioned attachment members.

[0022] The attachment members include spaced apart first and secondelongated slots having corresponding cross-sectional configurations withthe peripheral flanges associated with both the base panel and theaforementioned side panels. Moreover, at least one but preferably all ora majority of the attachment members include a support segmentintegrally formed as a part thereof and serving to interconnect oppositelongitudinal sides of the various attachment members in which the firstand second slots are formed. The support segment may assume anyone of aplurality of different configurations in order to orient theinterconnected base panels and side panels in a substantially transverserelation to one another. More specifically, an attached side panel maybe oriented relative to the base panel in a substantially perpendicularrelation thereto or in an angular, substantially outboard orientationrelative thereto. The relative orientations of the interconnected basepanels and side panels are at least partially dependent, on the overallintended or predetermined configuration of the enclosure or containerassembly defining the load supporting assembly of this embodiment of thepresent invention. It is emphasized that the terminology “correspondingcross-sectional configuration”, when referring to an interconnectionbetween the elongated slots in the attachment members and the peripheralflanges is not meant to limit these respective structures to includeprecisely equivalent cross-sectional configurations. To the contrary,this term is meant to be generally descriptive of components withcross-sectional configurations cooperatively structured to besufficiently similar to accomplish the aforementioned secure, enclosed,gripping engagement, which eliminates the need for conventionalfasteners, such as rivets, typically used in the construction andassembly of a pallet or like load supporting assembly. It should also benoted that the overall shape and size of the load supporting containeris also dependent on the type of commercial carrier, such as acommercial airline, on which the load supporting container of thepresent invention is intended to be loaded.

[0023] These and other features of the present invention will becomemore clear when the drawings as well as the detailed description aretaken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] For a fuller understanding of the nature of the presentinvention, reference should be had to the following detailed descriptiontaken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0025]FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an assembled pallet assembly of thepresent invention;

[0026]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a base of the pallet assembly ofthe embodiment of FIG. 1 shown in schematic form;

[0027]FIG. 3 is a perspective, isolated view in partial cutaway showingdetails of the corner of the base illustrated in FIG. 2;

[0028]FIG. 4 is a top plan view in partial cutaway of a track segmentassociated with the embodiment of FIG. 1;

[0029]FIG. 5 is an end view of the structure of FIG. 4;

[0030]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a corner assembly associated withthe embodiment of FIG. 1, shown in schematic form;

[0031]FIG. 7 is a top view of the structure of FIG. 6;

[0032]FIG. 8 is a sectional view along line 8-8 of FIG. 7;

[0033]FIG. 9 is a end view in partial section of a track segment coupledto said corner assembly.

[0034]FIG. 10 is a top plan view of a base panel incorporated within theload supporting assembly embodiment of the present invention.

[0035]FIG. 11 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0036]FIG. 12 is an end view of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2 with atrack assembly, similar to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5,attached thereto.

[0037]FIG. 13 is an end view of the base panel of the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2 with various embodiments of attachment members securedthereto.

[0038]FIG. 14 is another embodiment of the base panel of the embodimentof FIGS. 1 and 2 with yet additional embodiments of associatedattachment members attached thereto.

[0039]FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of anattachment member associated with the load supporting assembly of thepresent invention.

[0040]FIG. 16 is yet another embodiment of an attachment memberassociated with the load supporting assembly of the present invention.

[0041]FIG. 17 is yet another embodiment of an attachment memberassociated with the load supporting assembly of the present invention.

[0042]FIG. 18 is a detail view in cross-section of at least one slotformed in the various embodiments of the attachment members of FIGS. 13through 17.

[0043]FIGS. 18A through 18H are respective cross-sections of the slot ofthe embodiment of FIG. 18 disposed in gripping engagement withperipheral flanges, each of which have a different structural andcross-sectional configuration.

[0044] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout theseveral views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0045] As shown in the accompanying Figures, the present invention isdirected towards a load supporting assembly, which in at least oneembodiment comprises a pallet assembly, generally indicated as 10. Thepallet assembly 10 is of the type that is capable of supporting andretaining a load, in the form of freight, cargo, etc., and moreparticularly, is preferably configured to be securely disposed withinthe interior cargo compartment of an aircraft.

[0046] More specifically, the pallet assembly 10 comprises a base,generally indicated as 12. The base 12 preferably, but not necessarily,includes a central portion 14 formed from a solid, one piececonstruction, and preferably of a metallic sheet material. Additionally,the peripheral portion of the base 12 comprises at least one butpreferably a plurality of peripheral flanges, generally indicated as 16,disposed in spaced apart relation from one another about the peripheralportion of the base 12. Each of the peripheral flanges 16 preferablyincludes an elongated configuration, and extends along the length of acorresponding one of a plurality of sides of the base 12, whichnormally, but not necessarily comprises, a multi-sided configuration.Furthermore, although each of the peripheral flanges 16 may be ofunitary or segmented construction, the overall length of each peripheralflanges 16 is preferably substantially equivalent to the length of theside of the central portion 14 of the base 12 along which it extends.Accordingly, each of the peripheral flanges 16 preferably terminates inoppositely disposed ends 18, and because the length of each of theperipheral flanges 16 is substantially equivalent to the respectivesides to which it is attached, there is a space between correspondinglypositioned ends 18 of adjacently positioned peripheral flanges 16 asbest shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The space between the correspondinglypositioned ends 18 is disposed in aligned relation with a corner 20 ofthe base 12, and in some cases may be greater if a shorter peripheralflange structure is desired.

[0047] As will be explained in greater detail hereinafter, the openspace disposed in aligned relation with the base corner 20 is filled bya corner assembly, generally indicated as 22, and shown in detailed inFIGS. 6 through 9. Further, as also best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each ofthe peripheral flanges 16 are preferably integrally or otherwise fixedlysecured to the central portion 14 along respective ones of the sides14′. The structuring of the central portion 14 and the plurality offlanges in the manner described facilitates assurance of the structuralintegrity of the pallet assembly 10, as well as a secure mounting orinterconnection of the remaining components of the pallet assembly 10,when assembled without the need for fasteners. Additionally, in order tofurther add to the strength and/or structural integrity of the base 12and particularly the central portion 14 of base 12, one or more seams orbreaks 15 may be formed in the central portion 14, as shown in FIG. 3.Depending on the overall configuration of the base 12, the seam or break15 may have a generally transversely intersecting or other appropriateconfiguration.

[0048] A further structural feature of the present invention is theprovision of a track assembly, generally indicated as 24, securelyattached to the base 12, generally about the peripheral portionsthereof. In particular, the track assembly 24 is secured, in at leastpartially surrounding relation to the central portion 14 of the base 12,in a substantially fixed manner which eliminates the need for theutilization of conventional fasteners or connectors, such as but notlimited to rivets, typically used in known or conventional palletstructures. Of course, if desired, additional fasteners could be addedfor increased strength.

[0049] More specifically, the track assembly 24 comprises at least one,but preferably a plurality of track segments 26 shown in mounted orassembled form on the pallet assembly 10 in FIG. 1 and shown in detailin FIGS. 4 and 5. Each of the one or more track segments 26 comprises anelongated configuration, preferably corresponding in length to theperipheral flange 16 to which it is attached. Much like the peripheralflanges 16, the track segments 26 may be of integral or segmentedconstruction. Further, each of the track segments 26 preferablycomprises an at least partially hollow interior portion. In particular,each track segment 26 preferably includes at least one channel 28 whichmay extend partially or completely along a length of the track segment26. However, in at least one preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 5, eachtrack segment 26 includes two channels 28 and 28′. Further, each channel28 and 28′ preferably include an open end which corresponds to andextends through the end 30 of the respective track segments 26. As aresult of these channels 28 and 28′, an overall weight of the tracksegments 26 is reduced. In addition to the one or more channels 28 and28′, the aforementioned hollow interior portion of the individual tracksegments 26 may also be defined by a track, generally indicated as 32.The track 32 is preferably, but not necessarily, a single continuousstructure, and includes a track interior 34 which communicates directlywith a plurality of spaced apart apertures 36, as best shown in FIG. 4.Each of the apertures 36 are separated by a narrowed portion 38 having alesser transverse dimension than the diameter or equivalent transversedimension of the plurality of apertures 36. The track 32 is structured,dimensioned and configured to accommodate the removable but fixedretention of a connector or other structure schematically represented as37 (FIG. 9) secured to and/or associated with a load retainingstructure, such as a net, (not shown for purposes of clarity). As setforth above, such a retaining structure is maintained in a covering,retaining relation to any load supported on the base 12 in theconventional fashion. As can be appreciated, the apertures 36 and/orother structure to which the load retaining structure is secured, mayinclude a variety of different configurations and may be defined only atfixed securement points rather than as a continuous elongate structure.Still, however, the track interior 34 which defines each portion or allof the track 32 fastening points also preferably extends through the end30 of the track segment 26, as in FIG. 5. Moreover, it is also preferredthat the track interior be generally recessed, preferably a greaterextent than that available with conventional pallets, so as to providemore secure retention therebeneath.

[0050] The track segments 26 of the present invention also include anelongated slot 40 defined therein and preferably extending along alength of each of the track segments 26. The overall length of the slot40, which may be continuous or segmented, is preferably at leastgenerally equal to the length of the individual peripheral flange 16which is attached thereto, as explained hereinafter. The slot 40 alsoincludes an opening, as at 42, which also preferably extends along theentire length of the slot 40.

[0051] With reference to both FIGS. 3 and 5, the peripheral flanges 16have a predetermined cross-sectional configuration which fits into andpreferably corresponds with the cross-sectional configuration of theslot 40. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, such cross-sectional configurationis defined by flange segment 17 extending laterally outward from thecentral portion 14 of base 12, and a flange segment 19, which integrallyor otherwise fixedly interconnects the flange segment 17 to one of therespective sides 14′ of the base 12. While the specific cross-sectionalconfiguration of each of the peripheral flanges 16 may vary, onepreferred cross-sectional configuration is substantially an “L-shape” soas to define a generally “Z-shape” configuration with the centralportion 14 of the base 12. Similarly, the cross-sectional configurationof the elongated slot 40 also has what may be considered an at leastpartially corresponding cross-sectional configuration by virtue of therelative position of the slot 40 and its associated opening 42, as wellas the body of each of the track segments 26 surrounding the slot 40.Therefore, in order to assure and define a secured, gripping attachmentbetween each of the track segments 26 and the corresponding ones ofperipheral flanges 16, the flange segment 17 is inserted into theinterior of the elongated slot 40 such that the flange segment 19 ofeach of the peripheral flanges 16 protrudes outwardly from the opening42. Each of the peripheral flanges 16 are thereby attached in securedgripping engagement and in somewhat surrounded or enclosed relation onthe interior of the slot 40, while allowing a portion of each of theperipheral flanges 16 to extend outwardly through the opening 42associated with each of the elongated slots 40. By virtue of thissecured, gripping attachment, the use of a plurality of conventionalfasteners or connectors, such as but not limited to rivets, bolts, andscrews, is thereby avoided and the chances of even partial separation ordetachment of the track segments 26 from their fixedly secured,operative position about the peripheral portion is minimized.Furthermore, the securement is continuous along the entire length of theperipheral segments so as to achieve a uniform engagement throughout. Itis emphasized that the slot 40 may extend through one or both oppositeends or extremities of the track segments 26 so as to facilitate thesliding engagement between corresponding ones of the track segment 26and the peripheral flange 16.

[0052] Another feature of the present invention as shown in FIG. 6through 9 and comprises the aforementioned corner assembly 22. Inpractice, a plurality of corner assemblies 22 are preferablyincorporated within the pallet assembly 10 of the present invention,depended upon the overall configuration thereof Each of such cornerassemblies 22 includes a corner segment 46 which is dimensioned andconfigured to substantially fill the space between correspondinglypositioned ends 18 of adjacently positioned ones of the peripheralflanges 16, as best shown in FIG. 2 and 3. The inclusion of one or morecorner assemblies 22 in the manner shown in FIG. 1 provides asubstantially continuous, un-interrupted peripheral portion thateliminates the aforementioned spaces between the corresponding ends 18.

[0053] More specifically, each of the corner assemblies 22 includes atleast one but preferably two, outwardly extending connecting assemblies,generally indicated as 48. Each connecting assembly 48 preferablyincludes a plurality of connector members comprising a first connectormember 50 and a second connector member 52. As best shown in FIGS. 6, 7,and 8, each of the connecting assemblies 48 extends outwardly fromspaced apart ends 46′ of the corner segment 46. In addition, theindividual connector members 50 and 52 are preferably disposed in spacedapart relation to one another and extend outwardly from a common end 46′of the corner segment 46 in the same direction and in substantiallyparallel relation to one another. As is also apparent, the relativedimensions of the individual connector members 50 and 52 of eachconnecting assembly 48 are oppositely oriented but otherwisesubstantially correspond to one another both in transverse dimension andlength. Also, the cross-sectional configuration of each of the connectormembers 50 and 52, as well as the dimensions thereof are specificallydesigned to be inserted respectively in the open ends of the channels 28and 28′ and an open end of the track 32, as seen in FIG. 9. Accordinglythe cross-sectional configuration and overall dimension of the channels28 and 28′ is such as to receive by insertion, connecting members 50 and52 respectively. As set forth above, the interior of the track 32 isstructured to receive a conventional connector or attachment structure37.

[0054] It should be apparent therefore that the mounting or securementof each of the corner assemblies 48 in aligned relation to correspondingbase corners 20 is achieved by direct connection to adjacentlypositioned track segments 26, without the use of rivets or likeconventional connectors. Of course, it is understood that one or more ofthe connector members could be integrated as part of a single orseparate element to correspond to an opening into the hollow interior ofthe track segments. For example, separate channels and the like may bedefined in the ends of the track segments for the express purpose ofreceiving one or more connector members 50 and 52 having substantiallythe same or a variety of different configurations. Also, a tight,press-fit engagement could be achieved with or without a lockingstructure, such as a raised button disposed thereon.

[0055] The present invention also comprises additional embodiments inthe form of a load supporting assembly which may include a cargo or loadsupporting container or enclosure. More specifically, and with primaryreference to FIGS. 10 through 18, the load supporting assembly of thepresent invention includes a base panel, generally indicated as 60,having at least one but preferably a plurality of peripheral flanges 62collectively disposed in substantially surrounding relation to a centralportion 64 and integrally secured thereto so as to extend laterallyoutward from corresponding sides of the central portion 64 in the mannerdisclosed in FIGS. 11 through 14. More specifically, each of theperipheral flanges 62 may include either a more distinct, multi-sidedcross-sectional configuration or the substantially curvilinearcross-sectional configuration as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3. Itshould be further noted that the one or more peripheral flanges 62 notonly extend laterally outward, as demonstrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, butalso are disposed in a raised or transversely outward position from thecentral portion 64. The cross sectional configuration and outwarddisplacement of the peripheral flanges 62 in this manner facilitates theconnection of one or more attachment members thereto, as will beexplained in greater detail hereinafter, in a manner which eliminatesthe need or use of conventional connectors such as rivets or the like.

[0056] With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 12, the base panel 60may be used as a pallet assembly of the type discussed with reference tothe embodiments of FIGS. 1 through 9. In the embodiment of FIG. 12 theperipheral flanges 62 are secured to one or more track assembliesgenerally indicated as 66. Also, when such track assembly 66 areconnected to the base panel 60, in the manner set forth in FIG. 12, aplurality of appropriately structured, dimensioned and configured cornerassemblies, generally indicated as 22 in the embodiments of FIGS. 6 and7, may be mounted in the appropriate spaces 67.

[0057] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, additional preferredembodiments of the present invention comprise the base panel 60 havingat least one, but preferably a plurality, of its peripheral flanges 62secured to one or more first attachment members generally indicated as70. Each of the first attachment members 70 preferably includes anelongated configuration which substantially corresponds to the length ofthe peripheral flange 62 to which it is connected. In addition, thevarious embodiments of the attachment member 70 include a firstelongated slot 72 and a second elongated slot 74 disposed in spacedapart relation to one another and interconnected by a support segment76. The support segment 76 is integrally formed as part of the firstattachment member 70 and, as will be explained in greater detailhereinafter, may take a variety of different configurations. Both thefirst and second slot 72 and 74 extend along substantially the entirelength of the attachment member 70 and each include an opening 78 and 79respectively, which is dimensioned and configured to allow passage therethrough of a peripheral flange 62 or equivalent structure, as will alsobe explained in greater detail hereinafter. The elongated first slot 72has a cross-sectional configuration, which substantially corresponds tothe cross-sectional configuration of the peripheral flange 62 or otherstructure with which it is connected. Similarly, the opening 78associated with the elongated slot 72 is dimensioned to receive theperipheral flange therein in the manner clearly shown in FIGS. 13 and14. By virtue of the cooperative dimensioning of the respectivecross-sectional configurations between the first slot 72 and theperipheral flange 62, an enclosed, substantially gripping engagement isaccomplished between attachment member 70 and the base panel 60. Thisgripping engagement eliminates the need for any type of conventionalconnector, such as a rivet or like structure, commonly associated withthe production and assembly of pallet structures or load supportingassemblies.

[0058] The second slot 74 of the attachment member 70 is designed toreceive and grippingly engage a peripheral flange or like longitudinaledge structure 81 of a side panel or other structural component 80. Inan embodiment which may utilize both the base panel 60 and the sidepanel 80, the load supporting assembly of the present invention may bemore specifically defined as a load supporting container or enclosurewhich may be structurally configured to facilitate loading on acommercial carrier, such as a commercial airline or the like. The sidepanel 80 may be somewhat similarly structured to the base panel 60 byvirtue of it including at least one and preferably a plurality ofperipheral flanges 82 as well as a central portion (not shown in detailfor purposes of clarity).

[0059] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, it is emphasized that the oneor more first attachment members 70 may be structured such that thesupport segment 76 or 76′ may take a variety of different orientationsor configurations. Accordingly, the side panel 80 may be oriented in avariety of predetermined positions relative to the base panel 60dependent, at least in part, on the preferred or predetermined overallshape or configuration of the container or enclosure defining the loadsupporting assembly of the present invention. The overall configurationof the load supporting container assembly may be dependent upon the typeof the common carrier, such as a commercial aircraft, in which thecontainer is loaded.

[0060] Accordingly, the difference in the orientation or configurationof the support segment 76′ from that of the support segment 76 is forthe express purpose of orienting the side panel 80 in a preferredposition relative to the base panel 60, or other side panels 80, so asto accomplish the preferred structural configuration of the container orenclosure which defines the loads supporting assembly of the presentinvention. Naturally, the support segment 76, 76′ may have otherpreferred configurations so as to orient anyone or more side panels 80in other preferred or predetermined positions to accomplish the overalldesired configuration of a load supporting container or enclosure, asset forth above. An example of this is disclosed in FIG. 13, wherein thefirst attachment member 70 disposes the side panel 80 in a substantiallyperpendicular relation to the base panel 60 and the second attachmentmember 70′ orients the side panel 80 in a somewhat “outboard” oroutwardly extending angular orientation as shown.

[0061] Again with reference to FIG. 14, the plurality of differentattachment members may also include an auxiliary attachment member,generally indicated as 70″. The auxiliary attachment member 70″ includesthe first elongated slot 72 having opening 78 for the receipt andgripping, enclosed engagement of the corresponding peripheral flange 62of the base panel 60, as shown. However, the support segment 76″ has aconfiguration which disposes the opposite end of the auxiliaryattachment member 70″ in an “inboard”, substantially overlying relationto the peripheral flange 62 to which it is attached and in somewhatoverlying relation to a corresponding side of the central portion 64 ofthe side panel 60. In addition, it should be noted that the auxiliaryattachment member 70′ may include the provision of a track 32′ for theattachment of a load retaining structure thereto. Accordingly, the track32′ is structurally and functionally similar to the track 32 as shown inthe embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 5, as set forth above.

[0062] Another preferred embodiment of the load supporting assembly ofthe present invention also includes at least one but preferably aplurality of second attachment members generally indicated as 86 anddistinguishable from one another by the designation 86, 86′ and 86″ asshown in FIGS. 15 through 17. More specifically, each of the one or moresecond attachment members 86, 86′, 86″ includes a support segment 88,88′ and 88″ configured to dispose a first and second slot 92 and 94 inspaced relation to one another and at different relative positions ororientations. Each of the second attachment members 86, 86′, 86″ has anelongated configuration and the respective first and second slots 92 and94 extend substantially along the length thereof. Further, each of thefirst slots 92 is disposed and structured to enclose and grippinglyengage a peripheral flange or correspondingly positioned peripheral edgeof either a side panel 80 or a third panel 95. The third panel 95 may ormay not be structured similar to the base panel 60 and side panel 80 byincluding a central portion (not shown) and one or more peripheralflanges or edges 96. Each of the peripheral edges 96 may have across-sectional configuration which either corresponds to thecross-sectional configuration of the corresponding slot 92 or 94 inwhich it is mounted or is otherwise cooperatively structured toaccomplish the aforementioned enclosed, attached, gripping engagementtherewith. Therefore, the third panel 95 may serve as a cover or “roof”or as a panel segment disposed in any preferred or intended location soas to accomplish the overall structural configuration of the loadbearing container or enclosure, which defines at least one embodiment ofthe load supporting assembly of the present invention, as explainedabove.

[0063] With reference to the specific embodiments of FIGS. 15, 16, and17, the second attachment member 86 has its first and second slots 92and 94 respectively oriented so as to position a side panel 80 insubstantially transverse or more specifically perpendicular relation tothe third panel 95, as well as an associated base panel 60, which may beinterconnected thereto. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the secondattachment member 86′ is configured to dispose the side panel 80 in anoutboard or outwardly extending, angular orientation relative to thethird or roof panel 95. In the embodiment of FIG. 17, the secondattachment member 86′ is demonstrated as interconnecting two thirdpanels 95 which may or may not be disposed as roof or cover panelsegments and wherein the third panels 95 are disposed in generallyparallel or co-planar relation to one another.

[0064] Another structural feature of the present invention comprises atleast one of the first or the second elongated slots 74, 92, and/or 94of each of the embodiments of the attachment members 70, 70′, 70″, 86,86′ 86″, etc. having a preferred cross-sectional configuration as shownin FIG. 18. More specifically, the cross-sectional configuration of theelongated slot, generally indicated as 100, comprises at least twobearing surfaces 102 and 104 disposed in substantially transverserelation to one another. More specifically, at least one of the bearingsurfaces 104 assumes an angular orientation relative to the other of thebearing surface 102 and even more specifically the bearing surfaces maycollectively define a generally triangular configuration. Accordingly,the cross-sectional configuration 100 of the elongated slot of FIG. 18which, as set forth above, may be incorporated in one or all of theelongated slots 74, 92, and/or 94 of the various attachment members,includes the bearing surfaces 102 and 104 being relatively oriented soas to at least partially enclose and securely grip and engage acorrespondingly disposed peripheral flange of one of the side panels 80and/or third panels 94. As schematically demonstrated in FIG. 18Athrough 18G the configuration 100 also increases the versatility of theoverall assembly by allowing any of a variety of differentconfigurations of the peripheral flanges to be secure therein. As setforth above, such a secure gripping engagement between respective onesof the panels and attachment members eliminates the need of conventionalconnectors, such as rivets or the like, commonly used in pallet assemblyand construction.

[0065] Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can bemade to the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it isintended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in theaccompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0066] Now that the invention has been described,

What is claimed is:
 1. A load supporting assembly comprising: a) a basepanel including a peripheral portion disposed in at least partiallysurrounding relation to said base, b) said peripheral portion includingat least one peripheral flange extending outwardly from said base panel,c) at least one attachment member having a first slot formed therein andextending along a length thereof, d) said first slot and said one flangemember having substantially corresponding cross-sectionalconfigurations, and e) said one peripheral flange disposed insubstantially enclosed relation within said first slot to at leastpartially define a gripping engagement between said base panel and saidattachment member.
 2. An assembly as recited in claim 1 furthercomprising at least one side panel secured to said attachment member anddisposed in outwardly extending, substantially transverse relation tosaid base panel.
 3. An assembly as recited in claim 2 wherein said oneattachment member comprises a second slot disposed in spaced relation tosaid first slot and in receiving engagement with a portion of said sidepanel.
 4. An assembly as recited in claim 3 wherein said side panelcomprising at least one peripheral flange disposed in substantiallyenclosed relation within said second slot to at least partially define agripping engagement between said side panel and said attachment member.5. An assembly as recited in claim 4 wherein said one attachment membercomprises a support segment disposed in interconnecting relation betweensaid first and second slot.
 6. An assembly as recited in claim 5 whereinsaid support segment comprises a predetermined one of a plurality ofcross-sectional configurations dependent on a predetermined orientationof said side panel relative to said base panel.
 7. An assembly asrecited in claim 6 wherein said support assembly is configured toposition said side panel in substantially perpendicular relation to saidbase panel.
 8. An assembly as recited in claim 6 wherein said supportsegment is configured to position said side panel in substantiallyangular orientation relative to said base panel.
 9. An assembly asrecited in claim 8 wherein said support segment is configured toposition said side panel in an angled substantially outboard orientationrelative to said base panel.
 10. An assembly as recited in claim 3wherein said second slot comprises at least two bearing surfacesdisposed in substantially transverse relation to one another.
 11. Anassembly as recited in claim 10 wherein a first of said bearing surfacesis disposed in substantially parallel relation to a central portion ofsaid side panel.
 12. An assembly as recited in claim 11 where a secondof said bearing surfaces is angularly oriented relative to said firstbearing surface.
 13. An assembly as recited in claim 10 wherein said twobearing surfaces collectively comprise a substantially triangularconfiguration.
 14. An assembly as recited in claim 3 wherein each ofsaid first and second slots comprise an opening extending along a lengththereof and dimensioned and disposed to allow passage of correspondingperipheral flanges of said base panel and said side panel respectivelythere through into enclosed relation within said first and second slot.15. An assembly as recited in claim 3 wherein said one peripheral flangeof both said base panel and said side panel each comprise an elongatedconfiguration.
 16. An assembly as recited in claim 15 wherein each ofsaid first and second slots have an elongated configurationsubstantially corresponding to respective ones of said peripheralflanges of said base panel and said side panel.
 17. An assembly asrecited in claim 16 wherein each of said first and second slots comprisean opening extending along a length thereof and dimensioned and disposedto allow passage of a corresponding peripheral flange of said base paneland said side panel respectively there through into enclosed relationwithin said first and second slot.
 18. An assembly as recited in claim 4further comprising at least one second attachment member including afirst and a second slot formed in spaced relation to one another by asecond support segment; said side panel comprising a second peripheralflange.
 19. An assembly as recited in claim 18 further comprising and atleast a third panel including a peripheral portion disposed insubstantially enclosed relation within said second slot of said secondattachment member so as to at least partially define a grippingengagement between said second attachment member and said third paneland interconnecting relation between said base panel, and side panel andsaid third panel.
 20. An assembly as recited in claim 1 furthercomprising an auxiliary attachment member having a first slot formedtherein and correspondingly configured to receive said peripheral flangeof said base panel therein; said auxiliary attachment member including atrack assembly structured to removably secure a load retaining structureto said base panel.
 21. An assembly as recited in claim 20 wherein saidtrack assembly is disposed in substantially inboard, overlying relationto said peripheral flange of said base panel.
 22. A load supportingassembly structure to support a load within a commercial carrier, saidload support assembly comprising: a) a base panel including a peripheralportion disposed in at least partially surrounding relation to a centralportion of said base, b) said peripheral portion including a pluralityof elongated peripheral flanges extending outwardly from said centralportion of said base panel, c) a plurality of first attachment memberseach having a first and a second slot formed therein and extending alongthe length thereof, d) each of said first slots and said plurality ofperipheral flanges having substantially corresponding cross-sectionalconfigurations, and e) each of said peripheral flanges disposed insubstantially enclosed relation with a corresponding one of said firstslots to at least partially define a gripping engagement between saidbase panel and each of said plurality of first attachment members. 23.An assembly as recited in claim 22 further comprising a plurality ofside panels secured to corresponding ones of said first attachmentmembers and disposed in outwardly extending, said substantiallytransverse relation to said base panel.
 24. An assembly as recited inclaim 23 wherein each of said side panel comprises at least oneperipheral flange disposed in substantially enclosed relation with acorresponding one of said second slots to at least partially define agripping engagement between of one of said side panels and acorresponding one of said first attachment members.
 25. An assembly asrecited in claim 24 wherein each of said first attachment memberscomprises a support segment disposed in interconnecting relation betweensaid first and second slots; said support segment comprising anyone of aplurality of predetermined cross-sectional configurations dependent on apredetermine orientation of said side panel relative to said base panel.26. An assembly as recited in claim 25 wherein at least one of supportsegments is configured to position said side panel in substantiallyperpendicular relation to said base panel.
 27. An assembly as recited inclaim 25 wherein at least of said support segments is configured toposition one of said side panels in substantially angular orientationrelative to said base panel.
 28. An assembly as recited in claim 24further comprising a plurality of second attachment members eachincluding a first slot and a second slot interconnected in spacedrelation by a support segment; said side panel each comprising a secondperipheral flange, each of said second peripheral flanges disposed insubstantially enclosed relation within corresponding ones of said secondslots and at least partially define a gripping engagement between saidbase panel and each of said plurality of side panels.
 29. An assembly asrecited in claim 28 further comprising at least a third panel includinga peripheral portion disposed in substantially enclosed relation withinsaid second slot of at least one of said plurality of said secondattachment members to at least partially define a gripping engagementbetween said second attachment member and said third panel andinterconnecting relation between said base panel, said side panel andsaid third panel.
 30. An assembly as recited in claim 28 wherein each ofsaid second slots comprise at least two bearing surfaces disposed insubstantially transverse relation to one another, said transverserelation substantially defined by a second bearing surface beingangularly oriented relative to said first bearing surface.
 31. Anassembly as recited in claim 30 wherein said two bearing surfacescomprise a substantially triangular configuration.
 32. An assembly asrecited in claim 22 wherein each of said second slots comprise at leasttwo bearing surfaces dispose in substantially transverse relation to oneanother, said transverse relation comprising said second bearing surfacedisposed in angularly oriented relation to said first bearing surface.33. An assembly as recited in claim 32 wherein said two bearing surfacescollectively comprise a substantially triangular configuration.